A choir of 82 children from the Notre Dame School in Cobham has performed a song in front of the Bridget Jones actress and comedian Sally Phillips this week.

The event was part of the opening of the three-day Christian Resources Exhibition, which returned to Sandown Park, Esher, on October 16.

The choir accompanied the blind pianist Marilyn Baker perform “open my eyes” while using the Makaton system of signing to encourage inclusion of people with disabilities in churches.

Sally Phillips said: "Interdependence is what we are after. Independence is not all it is cracked up to be.

“In society there is no right to life if you have a disability. The Church has got to be the place where everyone is equal.”

Jonathan Bryan, 12, the author of “Eye Can Write” who lives with quadruple cerebral palsy, attended the opening.

Aided by his mum, who interpreted his message to the audience, said: “What wonderful music. Thank you Marilyn and the choir for filling the place with songs for the glory of God.

"God's heart is for those on the margins of society.”

One of the organisers Steve Goddard, said: "This was a wonderful start to a three-day exhibition which is aimed at expanding the horizons for local churches.

“I was delighted that the exhibition has highlighted the role that the so-called handicapped can play in church life. The church is doing a lot to help, but more is needed."

The Christian Resources Exhibition, which runs from October 16 to 18, featured 210 exhibitors and over 50 seminars on topics such as community engagement in the digital age.